ATF Updates Regulations to Reflect Zero-Dollar NFA Tax for Most Firearms

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is updating its regulations to match a law passed in July that cuts the National Firearms Act tax from $200 to $0. The change applies to silencers, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and weapons classified as any other weapons. Machine guns and destructive devices still require the $200 payment.

Why it matters: This is primarily an administrative update to keep agency regulations in sync with a recent law. The practical effect is that people transferring or making the affected firearms will no longer pay a $200 fee starting in January 2026. The rule also modernizes how the tax payment is documented by permitting electronic stamps. Beyond the fee change and the stamp format, the application and approval process stays the same.

Who it affects

• Individuals and businesses applying to make or transfer silencers, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and any other weapons under the National Firearms Act

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This action comes from the Justice Department’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as a final rule in the Federal Register; check the original document for full regulatory text and effective date details before relying on it.

Agency: Justice Department, Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Bureau
Source: Federal Register — read the official document